Simulating an Integrated Business Environment that Supports Systems Integration 2010-01-2305

This paper describes the design and application of a business simulation to help train employees about the new business model and culture that for an automotive supplier company that designs connected vehicle and other advanced electronic products for the automotive industry. The simulation, called SIM-i-TRI, is a three to four day collaborative learning activity that simulates the executive, administrative, engineering, manufacturing, and marketing functions in three divisions of a manufacturer that supplies parts and systems to customers in industries similar to the automotive industry. It was originally designed to support the new employee orientation at the Tier 1 supplier and to provide the participants a safe environment to practice the lessons from the orientation. The simulation has been used several times a month in the US, England, and Germany for over four years. It is now being used by Ann Arbor SPARK, a non-profit organization, is the driving force in establishing the Ann Arbor region as a destination for business expansion, retention, and location by identifying and meeting the needs of business at every stage, from startups to large organizations. The University of Michigan is currently developing a computer network adaptation of the simulation for application in remote locations. The intent is to use the simulation as a capstone exercise in the business course for engineers at UM - Dearborn. This type of simulation is essential to provide students with a realistic environment where they can learn through action and practice the social and business management skills from the training.